For decades, Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®) has ensured families with sick children are able to be together and close to the care they need, made possible in part through the change collected from generous customer donations at McDonald’s restaurants.

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Cristina Pool at a McDonald’s located in Temple. This location is not far from the Ronald McDonald House where many families stay while their child is sick. Within five minutes of our conversation, I could feel her passion for this initiative and the difference that the Round-Up makes for Central Texas. My five year old was able to help and it was a great teaching moment.

Did you know that McDonald’s customers can now donate to RMHC at the kiosks? This gives you the opportunity to Round-Up their purchase to the nearest whole dollar. You will literally click one button and every penny goes a long way. McDonald’s knows that many of us are rushed during meal time. They developed Round-Up for RMHC technology to serve as an additional donation option for customers as part of its continued commitment to innovation and technology. The technology and the added convenience it provides customers looking to donate to RMHC has been well received in Central Texas, with $2.2 million being raised through Round-Up for RMHC.

The next time you find yourself at McDonald’s for a family meal or sweet treat, please consider rounding up your purchase to the nearest dollar. Your extra change may help a family stay near to their sick child. Many families do not have the luxury of staying in a hotel for several months. While it may seem small to you, we can make a big difference if we all work together!